High Classical Style

Definition

High Classical Style refers to an artistic and architectural period that emerged in Europe during the late 17th and 18th centuries, characterized by a focus on balance, harmony, and proportion. This style is often associated with neoclassical art and architecture, which drew inspiration from the ideals of ancient Greece and Rome, reflecting the values of reason, order, and beauty prevalent during the Enlightenment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. High Classical Style emerged as a response to the ornate Baroque style, favoring simplicity and clarity in design.
2. Architects like Andrea Palladio greatly influenced High Classical architecture through their principles of symmetry and proportion.
3. This style often involved the use of columns, domes, and pediments in building designs to evoke classical ideals.
4. High Classical Style was not just limited to architecture; it also extended to painting, sculpture, and decorative arts during this time.
5. The style reflected the broader cultural shifts during the Enlightenment, emphasizing reasoned thought and aesthetic beauty in contrast to earlier emotional expressions.

Review Questions

• How did High Classical Style differ from the Baroque style that preceded it?
  • High Classical Style differed from Baroque in its emphasis on simplicity and clarity over the elaborate ornamentation and dramatic elements characteristic of Baroque. While Baroque art often showcased intense emotions and dynamic compositions, High Classical Style prioritized balance, harmony, and proportion. This shift marked a move towards a more rational aesthetic aligned with Enlightenment ideals.
• Discuss the significance of High Classical Style in relation to the values promoted during the Enlightenment.
  • High Classical Style is significant as it embodies the Enlightenment values of reason, order, and beauty. Artists and architects sought to reflect these principles through their works by drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman aesthetics. This connection to classical ideals served to promote a rational approach to art and architecture, aligning with the Enlightenment's focus on intellectual thought and humanism.
• Evaluate the impact of High Classical Style on later artistic movements and its lasting influence on Western art.
  • High Classical Style had a profound impact on later artistic movements, particularly in shaping neoclassicism and influencing modern design principles. Its emphasis on proportion and harmony established foundational concepts that artists would build upon in various styles. The revival of classical elements in later periods reflects its lasting influence on Western art, highlighting how it set standards for beauty and composition that continue to resonate in contemporary aesthetics.

Related terms

Neoclassicism:

An artistic movement that sought to revive the classical art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizing symmetry, simplicity, and grandeur.

Enlightenment:

An intellectual movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of authority, influencing art, philosophy, and politics.

Baroque:

A highly decorative and theatrical style that preceded High Classical Style, characterized by dramatic use of light, bold colors, and emotional intensity.